Meet the Tutor

Rory Garforth – ICT, Employability, Music, and Photography Educator

I am an experienced educator with a diverse background in teaching ICT, Employability, Music, Media, and Photography, with a particular focus on working with adults and individuals facing unemployment. My career spans 17 years in further community education and colleges, where I have taught a range of qualifications, including ECDL, OCR, and ITQ, while also serving as a Tutor and Exams Officer.

In addition to my teaching, I have over 8 years of experience in centre development, working within the voluntary and community sector. This has given me a deep understanding of the challenges involved in raising funds and complying with local, regional, and national government initiatives. I take pride in my ability to develop and implement new services and curricula, always striving to meet the evolving needs of learners and the communities I serve.

I have a strong background in managing budgets, working to tight deadlines, and achieving project objectives. My expertise also extends to supporting learners, staff, and volunteers, ensuring they have the guidance and resources they need to succeed, both in their education and in their broader social welfare.

Alongside my work in ICT and employability, I am also a passionate musician and photographer. I enjoy incorporating these creative subjects into my teaching, offering learners a more holistic approach to education. Whether it’s helping someone gain digital skills or guiding them through the creative process of music and photography, I am committed to helping people reach their full potential.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in various educational settings, from community centres to schools and colleges, and I find great fulfillment in supporting learners as they overcome barriers and achieve their goals. My focus is always on creating accessible, inclusive learning environments that empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives.

Interests

My main spare time activity is music (songwriting/guitar) and I have worked with different groups of musicians from around the UK on a range of projects. I’m a songwriter and acoustic performer for HotelBrown and Garforth & Myers, a folk/roots group who have so far released two albums (signed to Wavelength Records).  I enjoy gig work and have worked as a session guitarist, songwriter, Guitar Tutor and Producer.  

I am also a published Photographer, specialising in fine art Film photography, regularly holding solo and group exhibitions. I have a track record of delivering and co-ordinating effectively and within given deadlines a broad range of successful projects exhibitions, commercial work and workshops.